http://www.sportslocal.com/clps New Newsletters on Sports Local en-us Copyright 2008 Sports Local Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:30:03 EST Listed below are the 5A Top Ten Rankings as compiled by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association and Texas High School Baseball Magazine. 5A<br> 1. Corpus Christi Moody 26-2-1<br> 2. Flower Mound 25-4-2<br> 3. San Antonio Reagan 24-2<br> 4. Cy Fair 23-3<br> 5. Tomball 21-5<br> 6. Amarillo 23-2<br> 7. Rockwall 24-6<br> 8.The Woodlands 23-4<br> 9. South Garland 28-2<br> 10. Mansfield 26-4<br> 11. Lake Highlands 26-3<br> 12. Houston Westside 25-4 <br> 13. Rowlett 23-6<br> 14. Humble 20-6<br> 15. Allen 21-7<br> 16. La Joya 21-6<br> 17. Kingwood 23-5<br> 18. Deer Park 21-5 <br> 19. Belton 23-5<br> 20. San Antonio Highlands 16-4<br> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=37&NLID=7717 THSBCA and THSB Magazine Tue, 03 May 2005 05:40:00 EST Listed below are the 4ATop Ten Rankings as compiled by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association and Texas High School Baseball Magazine. 4A<br> 1.Waco Midway 28-2<br> 2. Nederland 20-3<br> 3. Arlington Heights 29-2<br> 4. Calallen 27-3<br> 5. Boerne 23-5<br> 6. Highland Park 21-5<br> 7. Kilgore 24-5<br> 8. Montgomery 24-5<br> 9. Dripping Springs 20-6-1<br> 10. Pampa 22-5<br> 11. Texas City 21-4<br> 12. Wichita Falls Rider 24-6<br> 13. Forney 21-6<br> 14. Lubbock Estacado 22-7<br> 15. Medina Valley 23-3<br> 16. Fort Worth Brewer 23-6<br> 17. Corsicana 20-8<br> 18. Port Neches-Groves 19-6<br> 19. Robstown 19-7 <br> 20. Brenham 21-8<br> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=36&NLID=7717 THSBCA and THSB Magazine Tue, 03 May 2005 05:39:10 EST Listed below are the 3ATop Ten Rankings as compiled by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association and Texas High School Baseball Magazine. 3A<br> 1. Carthage 27-1<br> 2. Yoakum 22-1<br> 3. Falfurrias 19-1-2<br> 4. Bridge City 25-4<br> 5. Gladewater 25-3<br> 6. Lufkin Hudson 24-3-1<br> 7. Lorena 21-4<br> 8. Lubbock Cooper 26-4<br> 9. La Vernia 20-2<br> 10. Columbus 21-2<br> 11. Barbers Hill 20-3<br> 12. Port Isabel 19-4<br> 13. Presidio 22-1-1<br> 14. Perryton 21-6<br> 15. Decatur 24-6<br> 16. Crandall 20-5<br> 17. Pharr Valley View 20-3<br> 18. Cameron 19-6<br> 19. LaGrange 18-5<br> 20. Huffman Hargrave 19-5<br> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=35&NLID=7717 THSBCA and THSB Magazine Tue, 03 May 2005 05:38:29 EST Listed below are the 2ATop Twenty Rankings as compiled by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association and Texas High School Baseball Magazine. 2A<br> 1.Franklin 24-2<br> 2. Brock 24-2<br> 3. Corsicana Mildred 22-5<br> 4. Lockney 16-3<br> 5. Blanco 22-1<br> 6. Crane 22-2<br> 7. Grand Saline 23-4<br> 8. Maypearl 18-5<br> 9. Woodville 24-4<br> 10. New Diana 22-2 <br> 11. Hughes Spring 19-3<br> 12. Danbury 21-2<br> 13. Gunter 21-3<br> 14. Nacogdoches Central Heights 21-6<br> 15. East Bernard 23-6<br> 16. Quitman 20-5<br> 17. Hebbronville 19-7<br> 18. Arp 19-4<br> 19. Elysian Fields 19-3<br> 20. Rogers 18-4<br> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=34&NLID=7717 THSBCA and THSB Magazine Tue, 03 May 2005 05:37:19 EST Listed below are the 1A Top 15 Rankings as compiled by the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association and Texas High School Baseball Magazine. 1A <br> 1.Thorndale 22-4 <br> 2. Dawson 21-2-1<br> 3. Valley Mills 19-4<br> 4. Joaquin 20-1<br> 5. Archer City 18-2 <br> 6. Harelton 23-3<br> 7. Beckville 18-4<br> 8. Colmesneil 18-4<br> 9. Martinsville 21-6<br> 10. Benavides 18-5<br> 11. Shiner 19-3<br> 12. Lovelady 16-5<br> 13. Axtel 11-3<br> 14. Plains 14-4<br> 15. New Deal 13-2<br> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=33&NLID=7717 THSBCA and THSB Magazine Tue, 03 May 2005 05:36:34 EST <FONT face=Arial><STRONG><U><FONT size=4>Why do I need a Trainer?<BR></FONT></U></STRONG>If there is one thing I have learned, it is the fact that when people want to start an exercise program they SIMPLY don't know where to begin.  <BR><BR><STRONG>PLATEAUS</STRONG>-Plateau just means they will stop seeing results from the program.  <BR><BR>1.  A qualified Trainer will know when a plateau hits either before you  experience it or if you do experience a plateau,which by the way can happen to no fault of anyone, the Trainer will notice it and address the problem.  You need to be ready to step your workouts up to a more intense level.<BR><BR><STRONG>INTIMIDATION</STRONG><BR><BR>2.  If your considering exercising at a Fitness Facility, there is a certain amount of intimidation that goes along with working out when other people are around.  Most people think they are being looked at or they may embarrass themselves in some way.  Another intimidation factor is, quote 'Everyone except me knows what they're doing and looks so good'.  THE TRUTH IS.....people aren't really paying attention to a new person, we are all different shapes and sizes, and not everyone knows what they are doing.  That being said, it doesn't take away the feeling people have when going to a Fitness Facility.  A Trainer can combat those feelings of intimidation by teaching the proper way to perform exercises and helping the client learn the etiquettes of working out in a gym.  Trainers are compassionate people and recognize the initial feelings. Once the foundation is taught and you feel comfortable, you can begin to exercise on your own.<BR><BR></FONT><FONT face=Arial><STRONG>PROGRAM DESIGN<BR></STRONG><BR>3.  In the beginning stages of an exercise program a cardiovascular program alone will produce results.  After going through the beginning stages, the famous 'plateau' will kick in. This is where program design comes in. <STRONG>Unless you want to maintain,</STRONG> a cardiovascular program alone will not continue to produce changes in the body.  A Trainer can assess your needs, listen to what your goals are and put you on a physical activity program to work your way into, not only results but, a safe and effective program that will allow you to slowly change your behaviors in exercise.  Unfortunately, we see people try to get results too quickly.  Anything can happen, but usually if a person tries to go too fast with their changes much of the time they end up burning themselves out or getting hurt.  THIS DOES NOT HAVE TO HAPPEN! If the process in exercise is slow, we see continued results rather than a short lived bout of exercise and in the end unproductive changes. </FONT><BR> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=32&NLID=7586 Susan Lowery EST <FONT face=Arial> <P class=MsoTitle style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; TEXT-ALIGN: left' align=left><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt'><FONT face='Californian FB'><FONT size=4><STRONG><FONT face=Arial></FONT></STRONG></P> <P> <P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>The word Anabolic Steroids is becoming synonymous with almost every household in America.  But, do we really know all of the facts about steroids?  What are some of the consequences of steroid use?  What happens when you stop taking the steroids?  Educating the parents, school administration, and our adolescents are just a few of the goals I have with this article.    </FONT></P> <P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>Lets start by stating some of the physiological side effects.  Not all will show up in individuals, but many tend to be consistent with people who take steroids.  Side effects can range from mood swings, psychosis, mental addiction, aggressiveness, ROID RAGE, irritability, and severe depression.  We thought for years that strength training could halt growth in children, we have found this to be just opposite, however, anabolic steroids have been shown to halt growth in adolescents prematurely.  The use of steroids can lead to a server personality change.  The users testosterone levels are at amazingly high levels, so high that they become a danger to themselves and others.   </FONT></P> <P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>What can happen when you stop taking the steroids?  There are several withdrawal symptoms from steroids.  They range from fatigue, restlessness, loss of appetite, insomnia, and depression.  This depressionaunquestionably work, no denying it, but they will shorten your life expectancy.  On the outside, steroid abusers look big and strong, but on the inside theyre weak.  Their organs take a beating and their bodies turn on them in all kinds of ways.  I hope I have conveyed that there are SO MANY negatives to steroids vs. the couple of gains.  Is your life worth it?</FONT></P> <P><FONT face=Verdana size=2>* PLEASE visit </FONT><A href='http://www.taylorhooton.org'><FONT face=Verdana size=2>www.taylorhooton.org</FONT></A><FONT face=Verdana size=2> to see how a potential All American pitcher from Texas took his own life because of steroids.  His story was on 48 Hours. </FONT></FONT></FONT></SPAN><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA'><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>                      </SPAN></SPAN></FONT></P> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=26&NLID=7662 Mitch Duncan Tue, 26 Jul 2005 13:23:28 EST <FONT face=Arial> <P class=MsoTitle style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Californian FB''><FONT size=4><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 1'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><STRONG>  </STRONG></SPAN>How many times did you hear this when you were younger?<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office' /><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>'You are too young to strength train.' I was told that all my life as a pre-teen.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>  Well, over the past several years there has been extensive research done to show strength training for children can be more beneficial than harmful.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>The latest research has found that strength training can be incorporated into a child's fitness or sport-related exercise routine without injury or growth problems.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>However, the program must be compiled by a knowledgeable professional taking into consideration the proper precautions.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommend strength training for children as young as six years old.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>In general, if a child is old enough to participate in organized sports, than he or she is ready for a strength-training program.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Contrary to popular misconception, there is NO EVIDENCE that an age-appropriate strength training program, done under qualified supervision, is detrimental to a child.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>In fact, research has shown strength training helps children maintain a healthy body weight, benefits skeletal development and joint integrity as well as improves on sports performance.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Dr. Avery Faigenbaum Ph.D, from the University of<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Massachusetts, a leading research scientist in the field of strength training for children, recently reported that for over seventeen years he and his colleagues conducted strength training classes for children, ages six to twelve, without a single injury.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Furthermore, The ACSM reported that strength training programs could prevent as many as 50 percent of all preadolescent sport injuries.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>With the fact I just stated, think of how many athletes may never have that torn ACL or have any shoulder or back problems.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Let's talk about some of the benefits of strength training for children. Among the general development benefits of strength training is its ability to increase bone mineral density, thereby decreasing the risk of developing osteoporosis later in life.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>A supervised strength-training program will increase the strength of ligaments and tendons, thus decreasing the chance of a knee, shoulder, or elbow injury.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Strength training can improve a child's fitness motor skill, such as jumping and sprinting, which are often required in sports performance. The child will develop a much more responsive neuropattern to their muscles which will provide for better growth and control of the muscle <o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>while strength training.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>With all that said, there are still guidelines which must be followed to ensure the safety of the child while he or she is strength training.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>Adult strength training guidelines and programs should NOT be applied to children. Under NO circumstance should a child who has not reached skeletal maturity (Tanner Stage 5, typically at age 15 for girls, and age 17 for boys) perform a maximum weight lift or any ballistic movements seen in Olympic weightlifting and power lifting.<BR><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR><FONT face=Verdana size=2>  </FONT></SPAN><FONT face=Verdana><FONT size=2>The point I would like to get across is that we need to get our children involved in a supervised strength-training program. If we can make our children stronger at a younger age, hopefully we can prevent many of the common sport related injuries. Not only will it help them in their teenage years, but further down the road into adulthood.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P></SPAN></FONT></SPAN></FONT> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=25&NLID=7662 Mitch Duncan Tue, 26 Jul 2005 13:23:18 EST <FONT face=Arial><FONT face='Times New Roman' size=4> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Are you one of the thousands of athletes that stretch first, and warm up later? IF SO YOU COULD BE CAUSING DAMAGE!<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office' /><o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Does this sound familiar? Before the big game your all excited and pumped up, you run out and start stretching.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>WHY DO WE DO THIS? Because that is what we have always done right before a game. Well, lets talk about why we should try a new approach.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>To get the most benefit from stretching while minimizing injury, stretching should be done AFTER warm-up exercises.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The increased blood flow and oxygen supply to the muscle prior to stretching is the key to injury prevention.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Warming up can do more than just loosen stiff muscles; when done properly, it can actually improve performance.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>On the other hand, an improper warm-up, or no warm-up at all, can greatly increase your risk of injury from engaging in athletic activity.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>It is very important that you perform a general warm-up BEFORE you stretch. It is NOT a good idea to attempt to stretch before your muscles are warm (something which a general warm-up can accomplish).<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>'Warm-up' is not synonymous with 'stretching'. Warming up comes before stretching. Think of your muscles as taffy.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>When taffy is cold, it snaps and cracks if you bend it.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>When it's warm, it's soft and pliable.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Basically, after a long day of sitting in class, you're nothing but cold taffy. Warm up your taffy for 10-15 minutes of your activity at a low level before you stretch.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Your muscles will thank you.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2> </FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Stretching after a workout has been proven to be even more effective than before the workout. A good cool down will prevent blood from pooling in your limbs. It will also prevent waste products, such as lactic acid, building up in your muscles.<o:p></o:p></FONT></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none'><SPAN style='FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New''><o:p><FONT face=Verdana size=2></FONT></o:p></SPAN></P> <P><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-FAMILY: 'Courier New'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA'><FONT size=2><FONT face=Verdana>Cooling down will help your muscles and tendons to relax and loosen, stopping them from becoming stiff and tight.</FONT></FONT></SPAN></P></FONT></FONT> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=24&NLID=7662 Mitch Duncan Tue, 26 Jul 2005 13:22:49 EST <FONT face=Arial> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>AAAHHHHH&&. The awesome sport of Powerlifting!!!<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>    </SPAN>INTENSITY is putting it mildly.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>It is amazing to watch the unbelievable level of strength in the Vidor High School Powerlifting Team.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office' /><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>If youve never watched a Powerlifting meet but enjoy and appreciate the intensity in athletes, this is one sport you dont want to miss.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The Regional Powerlifting Meet was held in Lamarque on <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags' /><st1:date Year='2005' Day='5' Month='3'>3-5-05</st1:date>.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The State Meet for the girls (*THSWPA) is held in <st1:place><st1:City>Killeen</st1:City>, <st1:State>Texas</st1:State></st1:place> at <st1:place><st1:PlaceName>Killeen</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType>Convention Center</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> on the 18 and 19 of March.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The State Meet for the boys (*THSPA) is held at Aldine Eisenhower H.S. in <st1:place><st1:City>Houston</st1:City>, <st1:State>Texas on March 25th & 26th, 2005.</st1:State></st1:place></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><SPAN style='FONT-SIZE: 14pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>As with any sport there are a couple of athletes that always stand out!<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Ashley Watson and Jeremy Christensen are by far two of those people.<o:p></o:p></FONT></SPAN></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>First let me say that the dedication and determination in these athletes are unbeatable.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>It takes focus and undying desire to keep concentration and to stay safe with every lift.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Heavy Squats, Bench Press and Deadlifts are just the three lifts performed at the Meets.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The training that goes on behind the scenes of the actual lifting is brutal!<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>With very strict judging criteria, form is very important to stay strong and focused.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Any wrong move could put an athlete at risk of missing a lift and possibly at risk for injury.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>The most important people during a lift for the athlete is undoubtedly the spotters!!!<BR>Most athletes dont get hurt because of the AWESOME coaching, form of the athlete, and the spotters at the racks.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>ASHLEY WATSON</STRONG>, a senior at <st1:place><st1:PlaceName>Vidor</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType>High School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> is an accomplished lifter and has proven it over the last 3.5 years.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Sports Local helped sponsor the Vidor High School Powerlifting Invitational. 18 other Schools in Region 5 participated in this Invitational on <st1:date Year='2005' Day='26' Month='2'>February 26, 2005</st1:date>.<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'> Ashley went to the State Championships and literally dominated her weight class!   </SPAN>The first time I watched Ashley lift, nobody had to tell me she was a stand-out athlete!<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>  </SPAN>Her performance and record speaks for itself  CHECK THIS OUT&&<BR></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'><BR><STRONG><FONT color=#cc0000 size=5>2005 State Championship<BR></FONT>Ashley broke her own records!  <FONT color=#cc0000>In the 165 lb.</FONT> weight class she dominated the competition.<BR>405 lbs.</STRONG> - Squat<BR><STRONG>225 lbs</STRONG>. - Bench<BR><STRONG>415 lbs</STRONG>. - Deadlift<BR><STRONG>TOTAL LIFTED - 1045 lbs.<BR>PREVIOUS TOTAL - 970 lbs.<BR><BR></STRONG> </FONT><FONT face=Arial><STRONG>ASHLEY ALSO RECEIVED THE OUTSTANDING AWARD LIFTER FOR BENCH AND OVERALL LIFTER ON THE HEAVY PLATFORM.  ALONG WITH THESE AWARDS SHE RECEIVED THE GOLD MEDAL FOR 4A AND A PLAQUE FOR 1-5A UNIFIED CHAMPION.<BR><BR></STRONG></FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><FONT color=#cc0000 size=4><STRONG>2002 Regional Qualifier</STRONG></FONT> <BR><STRONG>198 lbs.</STRONG> weight class</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>680 lbs</STRONG>. total lifted</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>Best Lifts  <STRONG>275 Squat</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>                  </SPAN>135 Bench Press</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>                  </SPAN>285 Deadlift</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><o:p><FONT face='Times New Roman'> </FONT></o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><FONT color=#cc0000 size=4>2003  <st1:Street><st1:address>5<SUP>th</SUP> Place</st1:address></st1:Street> at Regionals <BR>            <st1:Street><st1:address>3<SUP>rd</SUP> Place</st1:address></st1:Street> at State</FONT></STRONG> <BR><STRONG>148 lb.</STRONG> weight class<BR></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>760 lbs.</STRONG> total weight lifted<BR></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'>Best Lifts  <STRONG>290 Squat</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 7'>                  </SPAN>140 Bench Press</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 7'>                  </SPAN>340 Deadlift</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><FONT color=#cc0000 size=4><STRONG>2004  <st1:Street><st1:address>1<SUP>st</SUP> Place</st1:address></st1:Street> at Regionals and Unified State Champion 1A-5A</STRONG></FONT> <BR><STRONG>165 lb.</STRONG>   weight class</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>900 lbs.</STRONG>  total<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'> weight lifted   <BR></SPAN></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'>Best Lifts -<SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>   </SPAN><STRONG>350 Squat<BR></STRONG></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>                    </SPAN>185 Bench Press<BR></STRONG></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>     </SPAN><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>               </SPAN>375 Deadlift<BR></STRONG></FONT><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>165 lb</STRONG>. weight class Region 4 total Record Holder</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>148 lb. APF (American Powerlifting Federation) <BR>Squat Record Holder    @ 374.8</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>Deadlift Record Holder @ 358</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 6'>     </SPAN>Total Record Holder @ 903</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><FONT color=#cc0000 size=4><STRONG>2005  <st1:Street><st1:address>1<SUP>st</SUP> Place</st1:address></st1:Street> in State Rankings 1A-5A <BR></STRONG></FONT><STRONG>165 lb.</STRONG> weight class</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG>1030 lbs.</STRONG> total weight lifted</FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'>Best Lifts  <STRONG>405 Squat</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'> </SPAN><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 5'>                 </SPAN>225 Bench Press</STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><STRONG><SPAN style='mso-tab-count: 5'>                  </SPAN>405 Deadlift<BR><BR>I HAVE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST...now check this out!<BR><BR><FONT size=4><FONT color=#cc0000><FONT size=5>2005 - REGIONALS - 1ST PLACE                              <BR><BR>2nd time regional champion</FONT><BR>165 lb. weight class<BR><FONT color=#6600ff>SET 4 NEW RECORDS!!!!!! not only did she set new records she beat 2 of her own records.<BR></FONT></FONT><FONT color=#6600ff>SQUAT - 405<BR>BENCH - 225<BR>DEADLIFT - 405<BR>TOTAL WEIGHT LIFTED - 1035 and thats not all..........<BR><BR>ASHLEY WON 3 AWARDS FOR BEST LIFTER IN BENCH, DEADLIFT, AND OUTSTANDING OVERALL LIFTER ON HEAVY PLATFORM<BR><BR>YOU GO GIRL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<BR><BR>Good job Ashley, Congratulations and Good Luck at State!  It looks like your going to be on top!<BR><BR></FONT><BR></FONT></STRONG></FONT></P> <P class=MsoNormal style='MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt'><FONT face='Times New Roman'><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'><BR>The role of mental skills training and sports success is becoming clear.  Understanding, and practicing mental skills training, which inclucles learning the tactics of the sport and using the right equipment is a critical component of success.  It is also very clear that <STRONG>JEREMY CHRISTENSEN</STRONG> has done his mental and physical homework.  <BR><BR><STRONG>JEREMY</STRONG>, a sophomore at Vidor High School and all-around athlete has won 2 Gold Medals this year in Powerlifting and is currently in 4th place in the Region.  His Gold Medal wins were in Woodville and Vidor.  He has also received 2 Outstanding Lifter Awards this year.  Currently Placed 39th in the State, Jeremy's goal is to win State within the next 2 years. <BR><BR>REGIONALS: Congratulations Jeremy for placing 5th at Regionals!  Your record this year is outstanding.  We will look forward to next year!<BR><BR>I would just like to say 'GOOD LUCK' to Ashley, Jeremy and all of the Vidor Powerlifting Team.<BR><BR>Being successful like <STRONG>ASHLEY</STRONG> and <STRONG>JEREMY</STRONG> is a package full of self-manufactured skills, motivation, determination and the relentless pursuit of greatness.  A positive mental attitude, and hard work explains the success acquired by Ashley and Jeremy.  They are definately 2 champion athletes.                                           </SPAN><SPAN style='mso-spacerun: yes'>         </SPAN></FONT></P></FONT> http://www.sportslocal.com/nlps/story.cfm?ID=23&NLID=7586 Susan Lowery Fri, 08 Apr 2005 15:36:18 EST